Lieutenant Colonel Jonny Thompson, the senior equerry to the King and Queen, is to step down from his role at the end of the year after seven years in the royal household. Buckingham Palace announced that he is also leaving the British Army after nearly 22 years of military service to pursue a career in the private sector.

Palace Statement

A Buckingham Palace spokesperson said: "Their Majesties were of course aware of this plan in advance and I know they are most grateful to Jonny for his support over the past seven years and wish him all the best for the future."

Military and Royal Service

Lt Col Thompson was commissioned into the Royal Regiment of Scotland in April 2006 and served on operations in Iraq and Afghanistan before commanding Balaklava Company, the regiment's 5th battalion, based in Edinburgh. While in command, he led ceremonial and military support for the late Queen's annual residence at Balmoral in 2018 and the following year.

He was appointed equerry to Charles and Camilla in December 2019, became the King's equerry on Charles's accession to the throne in September 2022, and was promoted to senior equerry two years later.

Public Attention

Lt Col Thompson has attracted significant public attention, including a viral social media following. He featured in the King and Queen's official party during their state visit to the United States in April, where he drew particular notice. Lifestyle authority Martha Stewart posted praise and a picture featuring the equerry on Instagram, writing: "Can't believe I got this close to the 'hot equerry'…" She appeared to have met him during a New York event celebrating the work of the King's Trust, adding: "We actually spoke while waiting for King Charles to get to us for a few words. Totally charming, completely cool. Exceedingly handsome."

Personal Life

Lt Col Thompson and his wife, Olivia, welcomed a daughter in May. The couple married the previous summer. He also has a son with his ex-wife, Caroline Thompson.